HE is one of the most famous Muslim musicians on the planet but Sami Yusuf still feels he has a duty to help dispel the myths surrounding his religion.

The British singer-songwriter, composer and producer senses his simple messages of peace and understanding can help people perceive things differently.

“It is inevitable that I will be drawn into what is going in the world today.

“But I feel that the problems of the world are not to do with religion as some would suggest. It is due to the lack of religion.

“Because if people were following the true calling of religion then these things would not happen.

“Problems arise due to the dismissal of wisdoms of the past.

“My understanding is that we must remind people of the beauty of the inner dimensions. It is something everyone and anyone can relate too.”

Sami learned to play several musical instruments including the piano, violin, tar, tombak, santour, daf, tabla and oud, to count a few, at a very young age.

After he began producing music his groundbreaking debut album, Al-Muallim sold well over 7 million copies but also earned him a massive following in the Middle East, North African nations and South-East Asia.

His shows are grand and highly personalised. His performances are trim and tightly focused, complete with singing in English, Arabic, Turkish, Persian, Urdu, Azeri and Malay and performance on a multitude of both classical and ethnic instruments.

His latest album ‘The Centre’ is another return to form for the singer who goes from one language to the next with consummate ease.

“I am inspired by languages as English, Turkish and Urdu are a part of my identities.”

“I don’t tend to release much material and I don’t do many concerts. So when I do out and perform it is extra special for me.”

His music and words have transcended generations with young and old finding solace in his work.

“I am really proud of that. I have noticed that at some my concerts you will find grandparents sitting alongside their grandchildren. It is beautiful.”